SEPTA seeks public feedback on possible fare increases, service cuts

The authority is facing a $62 million FY2005 budget deficit. Unless SEPTA obtains additional funds, the agency plans to increase fares 25 percent, cut service 20 percent system-wide and cancel all weekend service, and eliminate about 1,400 jobs by January.

The measures would hike the base fare from $2 to $2.50, increase headways, lessen service hours and reduce overall ridership 22 percent.

In June, SEPTA’s board adopted a $919.7 million budget with a $70 million deficit based on anticipated state funds. In July, the state legislature adopted a budget with a state and local subsidy that exceeded the governor’s budget proposal by $7.8 million and left the authority with a $62.2 million deficit.

However, SEPTA officials are hoping that legislation proposed in June by State Sen. Stewart Greenleaf and State Rep. John Taylor — which would provide funding for SEPTA and other Pennsylvania transit agencies — passes.